Why User-Defined Functions Matter in SQL Server
Developers and DBAs often struggle to balance performance with maintainability when working inside large SQL Server databases. One solution is the user-defined function (UDF), a reusable block of T-SQL logic that simplifies complex queries and keeps code modular.
This guide explains the different types of UDFs, from scalar to table-valued and inline table-valued, and shows step-by-step how to create function in SQL with practical examples from the AdventureWorks2022 database. It also highlights best practices, common pitfalls, and performance considerations when introducing UDFs into production systems.
For teams that want to go beyond syntax, the article demonstrates how a professional SQL Server IDE such as dbForge Studio helps with debugging, query profiling, and visual query design, turning UDF creation into a faster, safer, and more reliable process.
